How to set up a file for die-cutting
The first step to make a die is having an outline. Basically, a die outline is a layer on the print file, containing the shape to be die-cut.
Generally, in that outline solid black lines indicate a cut, dashed black lines indicate a perforation and solid magenta lines are used to indicate foldings.
However, this is not an absolute notation. The important thing is that the manufacturer of the die, when viewing the document, does not have doubts about the type of blades to be inserted. It is advisable to include, in the outline layer, a legend with the appropriate instructions.
The software used to design the outline is usually Adobe Illustrator, because of the features this software offers the designer. At the time of delivering the die-cutting print file to your printer, it is advisable to send a PDF file generated from the Illustrator master file.